GENEVA, SWITZERLAND — Historic public health achievements were celebrated at the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA79) as Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), officially recognized 10 nations for eliminating neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
The high-level ceremony, held on the second day of WHA79, saw Dr. Tedros present certificates validating the eradication of several major diseases. Kenya was honored for eliminating rhodesiense Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT). Meanwhile, validation for trachoma elimination was granted to Algeria, Australia, Burundi, Egypt, Fiji, Libya, Tunisia, and Senegal. Chile also received recognition for the elimination of leprosy.
Dr. Tedros lauded these monumental efforts, emphasizing the importance of strengthening healthcare systems, prevention, and surveillance. "This historic achievement in public health is a powerful demonstration of what leadership, science, and solidarity can achieve," he stated.
Ministers of Health from the recognized countries shared their reflections on the sustained commitment required. Hon. Aden Duale of Kenya, extended thanks on behalf of his government, underscoring the nation’s dedication to advancing global health equity and disease eradication. Hon. Mohamed Seddik Ait Messaoudene of Algeria reflected that the UN recognition "marks the culmination of sustained efforts deployed by the Algerian State." Hon. Ximena Aguilera, Minister of Health for Chile, noted that their milestone "reflects decades of sustained work in public health, with strategies for prevention, timely diagnosis, effective treatment and continuous follow-up."
The WHA79 also celebrated other significant victories. Brazil, the Bahamas, Cuba, Denmark, the Maldives, Oman, Sri Lanka, and Turks and Caicos Islands were all feted for successfully ending mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Suriname and Timor-Leste were separately honored for eliminating Malaria.
According to the WHO, these advances globally demonstrate the effectiveness of prevention, screening, and access-to-care campaigns. NTD elimination represents the highest return on investment within the global health landscape, catalyzing profound social and economic advancements for countries. Historic moments like this serve as a powerful testament that disease elimination remains possible through strong country leadership, sustainable health policies, strengthened international cooperation and sustained investment.